A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Salzburg for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Lisbon or Salzburg?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Lisbon or Salzburg? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a musical, cultural, and recognizable city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Salzburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Salzburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Salzburg attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Salzburg and Lisbon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisbon or Salzburg?

Lisbon is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lisbon on the map. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Salzburg. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

Is the Food Better in Lisbon or Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lisbon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Lisbon and Salzburg.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the fantastic old towns in both Lisbon and Salzburg.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

The rich history of Salzburg can be explored in its historical center. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Salzburg?

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Lisbon and Salzburg.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Salzburg.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Salzburg is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is terrific for backpackers. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Salzburg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is terrific for its public transit. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Lisbon or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Lisbon is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Salzburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Salzburg?

In either Lisbon or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than Salzburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Salzburg. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lisbon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lisbon than Salzburg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lisbon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Salzburg if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Salzburg?

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Salzburg?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Salzburg is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Salzburg?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Salzburg?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the recognizable destination of Salzburg. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Salzburg, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Lisbon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lisbon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lisbon and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Salzburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Salzburg than you might in Lisbon.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lisbon Expensive? and Is Salzburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Salzburg?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Salzburg, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Lisbon or Salzburg?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lisbon or Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Salzburg. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Salzburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Salzburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Salzburg. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lisbon is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Salzburg can be very cold. In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Salzburg. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Salzburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Salzburg. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Salzburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Lisbon